In a bid to strengthen economic ties between Guinea and Nigeria, Guinean Ambassador to Nigeria, Siaka Cissoko, has announced opportunities for Nigerian companies to participate in ongoing mega-projects in Guinea valued at $20 billion.
“As I speak to you, there is an ongoing mega multibillion-dollar project in Guinea, about $20 billion that could be handled by Nigerian companies,” Cissoko said while receiving a delegation of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) at the weekend.
Persecondnews recalls that Guinea and Nigeria have enjoyed robust diplomatic relations, particularly since Guinea gained independence on October 2, 1958.
The two nations share a history of cooperation and mutual support, with both countries contributing significantly to regional development and stability in West Africa.
Cissoko reaffirmed the longstanding bond between the two nations, highlighting potential areas for deeper cooperation and mutual benefit.
He said: “I know, with this new partnership, Nigerians will be aware of the projects and key into it.”
The Ambassador emphasized the economic benefits of the partnership, stating that Guinean businessmen often overlook Nigeria when seeking business opportunities.
“Our businessmen always go to India, Pakistan, and other Asian countries to look for $5 million to $10 million business opportunities that could be gotten in Nigeria because they do not have comprehensive information.”
He stressed the importance of strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations through a partnership with the DICAN.
“Guinea and Nigeria have a long-lasting bilateral relationship. It is a good thing that a credible association like yours is paying us a courtesy visit,” the ambassador also said.
The ambassador noted that the association’s role in sharing information about both countries would be critical in bridging the knowledge gap between them.
He added: “Most of our people in Guinea build their opinion of Nigeria based on the Nollywood movies they are exposed to, but with this partnership, they will get to know more positive things about the country.
“Notably, four Nigerian banks – Access, UBA, First Bank, and Polaris (formerly Skye Bank) – are already operating in Guinea.”
Cissoko stressed the potential for collaboration in the mining sector, given the fact that both countries are rich in mineral resources.
He said: “We are great mining countries, which Nigerian investors could leverage on the opportunity to invest in our country.”
In response, DICAN Chairman Fredrick Idehai pledged the association’s commitment to partnering with the Guinean Embassy in Nigeria.
“DICAN is ready to share information on their business investments and development as part of the partnership.
“We will be available to support the embassy at all times. DICAN do not play politics as they are professionals that keep to the ethics of its practice,” he said.
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